Sho Baraka

Born in Alberta, Canada, Christian rapper Sho Baraka grew up in Southern California amid the ascent of gangsta rap and counted himself among its admirers. The incarceration of numerous peers who had adopted that lifestyle, however, prompted the budding MC to pursue another course, prompting him to enroll in college in Texas. Rap nevertheless drew him back, this time channeled through a Christian perspective, and in 2005 he joined Trip Lee, Lecrae, and Tedashii to establish the 116 Clique. He initiated his solo work two years afterward with Turn My Life Up, then issued Lions & Liars in 2010, an album that ascended to number three on Billboard’s gospel chart. Talented 10th, released in 2013, claimed the top spot on that same ranking and included a guest turn by fellow 116 Clique member Tedashii. Three years later Baraka delivered his fourth LP, The Narrative (Humble Beast), which entered the Top Ten of the Billboard rap chart.